NCF Unveils 14-Player Squad for ICC T20 Women’s World Cup Qualifier

By: Arinzechi Chukwunonso

The Nigeria Cricket Federation (NCF) has officially released a 14-player squad to represent the country at the forthcoming ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Africa Qualifier, a crucial pathway event to the 2026 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup.

The announcement, made in Abuja, confirmed that the Female YellowGreens will be captained by experienced all-rounder Agboya Peculiar, who will lead a blend of seasoned performers and promising newcomers.

Nigeria is set to begin its campaign on August 31 against Sierra Leone, before taking on Namibia on September 1 and Zimbabwe on September 3, in fixtures that will determine their progression to the next stage of the global competition.

The selected players are: Adekunle Shola, Agboya Peculiar (Captain), Akhigbe Anointed, Amusa Kehinde, Christabel Chukwuonye, Eguakun Omosigho (Wicketkeeper), Etim Sarah (Wicketkeeper), Igbinedion Victory, Lucky Piety, Omonkhobhio Oseyande (Debutant), Sunday Salome, Samson Rachael, Ude Lilian, and Usen Peace.

Notably, the inclusion of Omonkhobhio Oseyande marks her maiden international call-up, a development the NCF described as part of its commitment to nurturing new talent and strengthening the depth of women’s cricket in the country.

Speaking during the unveiling, NCF President Dr. Uyi Akpata expressed optimism about the team’s chances.

“This team reflects the future of women’s cricket in Nigeria. Their blend of talent and determination gives us optimism that they can compete strongly on the continental stage,” he said.

The squad will rely on the experience of standout players such as Lucky Piety, renowned for her all-round prowess, Victory Igbinedion, a consistent performer with both bat and ball, as well as Salome Sunday and Kehinde Amusa, who bring international pedigree to the lineup.

The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Africa Qualifier will feature some of the continent’s top cricketing nations, promising a high level of competition. For Nigeria, the event offers more than a qualification opportunity—it serves as a platform to inspire young girls nationwide to embrace cricket, in line with the Federation’s grassroots development vision.

The NCF Media Department has assured fans that match schedules, live updates, and coverage will be provided across its official communication channels throughout the tournament.